Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre

The Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre sits on Cradle Mountain Road, the gateway to one of Tasmania's most spectacular wilderness areas. As the main hub for visiting Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, it's where most journeys into the park begin — with information, facilities, a cafe and the shuttle service that ferries visitors to Dove Lake and the trailheads.

The appeal is that combination of a practical, welcoming starting point and its role as the doorway to extraordinary scenery: it's where you get your bearings, grab a coffee, learn about the park and catch the shuttle into one of the country's most beautiful alpine landscapes. A smooth, well-run gateway makes all the difference to a Cradle Mountain visit.

With a 4.5 rating from more than 3,000 reviews, it's a much-used and appreciated facility. Park passes, shuttle services, the cafe, opening hours and conditions vary — and the alpine weather can change quickly — so it's essential to check current park and shuttle information before you go, and to dress warmly and prepare for the mountain conditions whatever the season.